In addition to security updates released by device manufacturers, Android devices are protected through Google Play system updates. These updates can be delivered independently of firmware releases, allowing Google to patch security vulnerabilities in certain operating system components without waiting for a full OS update.
Galaxy phones and tablets usually receive Google Play system updates alongside Samsung’s regular security patches. However, from time to time, these updates stop arriving on schedule, leaving Galaxy devices on noticeably older Play system versions. We we appear to be at that point once again.
As
reported by
GalaxyClub, most Galaxy phones (and likely tablets as well) haven’t received a Google Play system update since August, or even July in some cases. Some newer and more expensive models have made it to September, but overall, Play system updates are no longer keeping pace with Samsung’s standard security updates.
For example, the Galaxy S25 series is still running the September Google Play system update,
despite already receiving Samsung’s December security patch. A newer version is only available on One UI 8.5 beta builds. The same situation applies to devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.
This isn’t the first time Google Play system updates have stalled on Samsung devices, and it likely won’t be the last. The issue tends to surface around the time Samsung rolls out a new version of One UI and Android. In previous years, Play system updates usually resumed afterward, often around January.
